"I think I would take him at Arsenal" - Darren Bent backs Gunners to sign 29-year-old Chelsea star
Former Premier League striker Darren Bent has admitted that he would take Chelsea star Raheem Sterling at Arsenal. The pundit believes the winger would be a useful addition to Mikel Arteta's squad.
The Blues signed Sterling from Manchester City in 2022 for a reported £47.5 million fee. The England international has struggled to impress at Stamford Bridge amid the club's turmoil. He has contributed 19 goals and 12 assists in 81 games for the west Londoners.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are keen on reinforcing their squad this summer as they prepare to challenge for the Premier League title again during the 2024-25 campaign.
While Sterling's contract with Chelsea expires in 2027, the club are reportedly willing to sanction his departure this summer on certain conditions. Bent has advised the north London side to sign the 29-year-old winger, whom he believes still has something to offer. He said on talkSPORT (as quoted by Caught Offside):
“And he is only 29, I think I would take him at Arsenal, Sterling. I would take him.
"I tell you what?! He is only 29! I am not saying he starts every game, but to have him. Not instead of (Martinelli) because they have to compete for that position."
On who would start between Martinelli and Sterling, he added:
“As it stands right now, Martinelli. But, come on! Sterling on the left, he is only 29, people talk about Sterling like he is 35. He has been in the game for a long time.”
Martinelli has made 174 appearances for the Gunners, scoring 41 goals and providing 24 assists.
Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli speaks on competition with Leandro Trossard
Gabriel Martinelli has said that he's looking forward to competing with Leandro Trossard for the left-wing position at Arsenal next season. The Brazilian believes such healthy competition would only be beneficial for the club.
Martinelli and Trossard have rivaled each other for a place in Mikel Arteta's starting XI as his preferred left-winger. The Brazilian contributed six goals and four assists in 24 Premier League starts last season, while Trossard netted 12 times in 18 league starts.
The Gunners lifted the Emirates Cup after beating Olympique Lyonnais in the final, courtesy of goals from center-backs William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes. After the 2-0 victory on August 11, Martinelli said (via Football.London):
“I think it's good for the team you know. We try to do our best on the pitch to win every game, so it's good to have two players fighting for the positions. Arsenal is happy with that and I am also so we try to give our best to win the games.”
The Gunners will face Wolverhampton Wanderers at home in their 2024-25 Premier League opener on Saturday, August 17.